Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
5G adoption has grown rapidly in Jordan. The number of 5G subscriptions reached 287,000 in the third quarter of 2025, up from 241,000 in the second quarter, representing a quarterly increase of 19.1 percent. On a year-on-year basis, subscriptions surged by 307 percent compared with the 70,000 recorded in the third quarter of 2024.
CITRA noted that it will continue to develop the regulatory framework for the telecommunications and ICT sector to keep pace with global technological advancements and support connectivity in areas that are difficult to reach through traditional terrestrial networks.
Pakistan has completed the 2600 MHz positioning round in the second phase of its 5G auction and is currently finalizing the 3500 MHz assignment. Jazz, Ufone, and Zong are competing for the best “slots” in the bands they purchased during the $507 million allocation phase. Final results for all band positions are expected to be announced together later today, paving the way for network rollout within six months.
The Communications Authority of Kenya is auditing Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology to prevent interference with terrestrial 4G and 5G networks. The review, prompted by an Airtel Kenya partnership, focuses on managing shared spectrum usage between LEO satellites and mobile towers. A final decision on power limits and geographic restrictions is expected by mid-2026.
Oman has launched its 2026–2030 digital strategy, featuring regional tech centres, a national AI decision-making platform, and local server manufacturing. Building on 2,200 already-digitized services, the Sultanate aims for 10% digital GDP contribution by 2040, focusing on cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and national data sovereignty to drive economic diversification.
PM Adviser Rehan Asad has unveiled a 30-year ICT roadmap for Bangladesh, prioritizing high-speed connectivity, digital sovereignty, and AI adoption. Key initiatives include free airport Wi-Fi by Eid, a review of 2025 telecom policies, and a crackdown on illegal devices to attract FDI. The plan aims to create 1 million tech-related jobs.
Oman’s MTCIT has launched its 2026-2030 digital economy roadmap, focusing on regional transformation centers, national AI platforms, and local cloud infrastructure manufacturing. Building on 2,200 already digitized services, the plan aims to enhance financial independence and technical sovereignty while driving the digital sector toward a 10% GDP contribution by 2040.
Pakistan has officially kicked off its 5G auction today with Jazz, Zong, and Ufone participating, aiming to double national spectrum capacity and launch next-generation services in major cities within six months while simultaneously improving 4G network quality.
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority conducts a mock auction to test systems and prepare telecom operators ahead of the country’s upcoming 5G spectrum sale.
Jordan’s telecommunications regulator reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening women’s participation in leadership and entrepreneurship across the telecom and postal sectors through dialogue, recognition programmes, and awareness initiatives marking International Women’s Day.